3 things to do for free in Denver this week, December 16-18

'Tis the season for being merry...and very, very broke. But if that's your current state, there's still plenty of free fun in Denver this week that won't further break the bank -- from a screening of A Nightmare Before Christmas to holiday tours of the Governor's residence to a Best Show listening party. Did we miss a bargain? Let us know in the comments section, and check out the Westword calendar for more event listings.

One of the perks of December in Denver is getting a chance to peek inside the beautiful Governor's Residence at Boettcher Mansion. Special free holiday tours are offered this week only from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. for those interested in checking out the festive decor and interesting history of the mansion.

Since 2001, Tom Scharpling has been hosting the beloved WFMU Best Show radio program, billed as three hours of mirth, music, and mayhem. But after a dozen years the show is coming to an end, and to celebrate/mourn its passing the Sidewinder is hosting a listening-party bash complete with drink specials.

Get into the spooky Christmas spirit by watching the 1993 Tim Burton-penned holiday flick The Nightmare Before Christmas. The library will host this free screening of the animated musical film about the pumpkin king of Halloween who decides to throw a very creepy Christmas.